TIPM Power Problems

UpdatedJanuary 29, 2018

Your car’s totally integrated power module (TIPM) is the electrical command center. Want the fuel pump to get gas from the tank to the engine? You need a working TIPM. Want to roll down the windows? Unless you have a hand-crank, you’re going to need a TIPM. Headlights, radio, electronic throttle control … TIPM, TIPM, TIPM.

That’s a long-winded way of saying the TIPM is very important. So when something goes wrong with the TIPM, you’re going to wish we were back in the horse n’ buggy days.

What Happens When a TIPM Fails?

By some estimates, hundreds of thousands of Fiat-Chrysler vehicles from the 2007–2015 model years have defective TIPMs. This includes the Liberty, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler.

Typical problems include:

The fuel pump not turning off and burning out

The airbags not deploying OR deploying randomly

The engine stalling while driving

The starter cranks but won’t start

The horn going off at random times

Power windows not working

Doors locking or unlocking themselves

In other words, a faulty TIPM makes your car feel possessed.

“Chrysler’s TIPM is a computer run amuck – owners report that their vehicles act as if possessed and leave them in dangerous situations – stalled vehicles stranded without warning on the highway, fuel pumps that won’t shut off, windows that open and shut, airbags that won’t deploy. — Center for Auto Safety Director, Clarence Ditlow”

Jeep TIPM Problems

The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) filed a petition asking NHTSA to investigate alleged problems with Totally Integrated Power Modules (TIPMs) installed in Chrysler vehicles since 2007. Nearly a year later, that petition was denied.

Additional Settlement Details

Chrysler wants everyone to know they’re not admitting a defect or a liability exists and they’re only settling to “avoid costly long-term litigation.” Whatever makes you sleep at night, guys.

Chrysler acknowledges that finalization of the terms of the agreement is based on a voluntary recall of 2012–2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs to install a stronger pump relay external to the TIPM–7

Reimbursement costs can go up to $1,200.

A National Backorder of TIPMs

Of course, it’s not all rosy. The problem is so widespread that replacement TIPMs are on national backorder! Chrysler remains silent while owners are left scrambling to pay for and order the part.

“The part is on backorder for MONTHS! And, Jeep Chrysler does not care about its customers. We have been told that it will take 2–4 weeks for the part to arrive, and we are not being provided a free rental during this time. We are expected to wait a month, which from what I have read on forums, etc., may not be true, but more than likely will be 2 or 3 months, for the vehicle to be repaired.”

About

Problem data is taken from CarComplaints.com & is based solely on reports received from vehicle owners. Recall, investigation and TSB data is from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It's always best to seek help from a qualified professional mechanic.